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Two Roads Diverged. . .

It would be nice if I was contemplative sylph, like the one featured in the video above. The reality is that I’m a tad more frantic when it comes to making life-changing decisions.

The soundtrack to my stream of consciousness is more like the erratic parts of Stravinsky’s Right of Spring (3:50 onward in this clip, for instance). There is, however, one part of the above video that I relate to: Every time I put my finger on a new fact that I should consider, it spirals out in a spasmodic stream.

Until a few days ago, I had no doubts that Ryerson University would be my future home. RU has offered me a much-appreciated acceptance to their competitive Master of Journalism program and much-needed renewable scholarship that would cover about 90% of my academic expenses. I’ve since delivered my confirmation and paid my deposit.

Recently, however, the University of British Columbia has personally contacted me and offered me an extremely prestigious fellowship (that would cover my tuition and a significant portion of my living expenses), an opportunity to TA for a New Media course (that would also be an income stream) and the possibility of doing some international work. Not to mention the stunning degree of personal care and attention that UBC has given me.

As you may understand, the news leaves me feeling quite conflicted.

Ryerson had initially been my first choice but now I have to think through all the personal, professional and practical considerations that enshroud me. I want to make sure I understand and appreciate everything that both schools have to offer before making this difficult decision. At the same time, I realize how blessed I am…and to be honest I still can’t quite believe this is all happening.

Both schools are incredible, so my mind spins with thoughts of Toronto or Vancouver. Support network or independence. Being close to my loved ones or creating brand new relationships. Media hub of Canada or burgeoning city of Olympic potential.

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9 thoughts on “Two Roads Diverged. . .”

Congrats on getting the offer. UBC has the most gorgeous campus I’ve ever seen, it’s simply stunning. You should consider that when making your choice.
Btw Stravinsky has long been a favourite of mine. I love Symphony of Psalms.

Mmm, so I hear. Right on the ocean in its own little corner of the city. Plus, during the Olympics I’m sure the city will be both beautiful and bustling…providing for quite a few feature stories. The Ryerson campus is nice enough…but it’s not really a “campus” being that it’s all over Toronto. Still, the building that houses the J-school program is very cutting-edge. I’m going to visit on Wednesday and I think that will help me make my choice. If the director doesn’t persuade me, then it looks like I may be westward bound.

What awesome news! Congratulations Fab! My parents have retired to BC, and I must say if I had a choice, I would pick Vancouver over Toronto hands down. It is a fantastic place to live. :) Good luck with the decision.

The pendulum keeps swinging back and forth…but I visited Ryerson the other day and spoke to the director, Gene Allen. He made some pretty convincing arguments for staying in Toronto. There’s only one thing I’ve decided: I can’t regret whatever choice I make because I’m doing the best I can with the information I have.

Well, I’m not sure because the director’s wording was a little confusing:

In my capacity as Director, I also want to extend a special invitation for you to visit Vancouver and our School over the next few weeks if you are in the Vancouver area. If you feel a visit would be helpful in making your decision, we hope you will take advantage of this opportunity. Our graduate advisor, Barbara Wallin, will be more than happy to answer any questions you might have in person, and to give you a tour of our campus.

But I don’t think I’d be able to anyway because school is extremely hectic right now and I only have until the 17th to decide.

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